An air transport policy for Malta : a stakeholders' view

Abstract

Deregulation of air transport policy in Europe has had significant repercussions on airlines, airports, all stakeholders and the travelling public. Open Skies agreements created favourable conditions for the birth of Low Cost Carriers. In turn, the growth of Low Cost Carriers has created an entirely different ball game - one based entirely on market forces. Low Cost Carriers, thus far, operate on short-haul bases, and often in direct competition with legacy carriers. In most cases, this has left the latter struggling to compete. International accessibility is vital for the development of the Maltese economy. Linked into the equation is also the quality of the international network of connections, destinations and frequency of service. This paper looks into whether an air transport policy for Malta is necessary to ensure that Malta derives optimum accessibility for the needs of its economy.